Bicultural Values

Although we may not be familiar with the Te Reo words for some of these values we are familiar with the concepts. These concepts are prominent in our Playcentres. For example –

Aroha (often interpreted as “love”, also empathy, tolerance, warmth and good will)

Share problems and concerns as well as the joys of success

Accept the uniqueness of individuals and focus on unifying the group.

Whanaungatanga (historical, traditional ties)

Feeling of belonging and being valued as members of the group

Sharing of skills, resources, time, information

Encouraging decisions by consensus

Manaaki (hospitality, respect, care)

Caring for each other ties people together creating the sense of community

Hospitality at appropriate times for individuals (e.g. visitors) and groups (e.g. meetings).

Turangawaewae (home territory)

Equal rights and shared obligations

Right to speak and be heard

Sense of identity and belonging to the organization

Knowledge of ones place in the scheme of things

Shared responsibility for future planning

These concepts are well known to all of us and it is great to celebrate this within our centres. A more in-depth explanation of these concepts can be found in the publication Te Wheke by Dr Rangimarie Pere, a copy of which is available in our Association Ailsa Densem Library.